Sweet Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sweet potato recipe is easy, wholesome, and incredibly delicious. Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free, rich in fiber, and loaded with vitamins like A and C. You’ll love their caramelized exterior and soft, fluffy interior when roasted, and how well they pair with a variety of herbs, spices, and sauces. They’re perfect as a side dish, a base for bowls, or even a healthy snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sweet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, cumin, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes (peeling is optional). Cut into cubes or wedges.
3. Place sweet potato pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
5. Toss well to coat evenly.
6. Roast in the oven for 25–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
7. Serve hot as a side dish or add to salads, bowls, or tacos.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet version.
• Spice it up with chili powder or cayenne for a smoky, spicy twist.
• Use different cuts like fries, rounds, or hasselback for presentation.
• Mix with carrots or parsnips for a roasted root vegetable medley.
• Top with crumbled feta or tahini for a Mediterranean-style dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
You can also freeze roasted sweet potatoes for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat in the oven to restore texture.

FAQs

Do I need to peel sweet potatoes before roasting?

Peeling is optional. The skin is edible and becomes crispy when roasted.

How do I know when sweet potatoes are done?

They should be fork-tender and golden on the edges. A caramelized surface is a good sign.

Can I boil sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, boil peeled and chopped sweet potatoes for about 15–20 minutes until soft, then mash or use as desired.

Are sweet potatoes healthier than regular potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are higher in vitamin A and slightly lower on the glycemic index, making them a nutritious choice.

Can I make sweet potatoes in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

What’s the best way to season sweet potatoes?

They pair well with both sweet (cinnamon, nutmeg) and savory (garlic, cumin, rosemary) seasonings.

How do I prevent sweet potatoes from getting soggy?

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet and roast at a high temperature for caramelization.

Can I freeze cooked sweet potatoes?

Yes, store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

Despite common confusion, most “yams” sold in stores are actually sweet potatoes. True yams have a rough, starchy texture and are less sweet.

Can I use this recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely. Roasted sweet potatoes reheat well and can be added to bowls, salads, or wraps throughout the week.

Conclusion

Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can be prepared in countless ways to suit any taste. This easy roasted sweet potato recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it a reliable side dish or main component for any meal. Whether sweet or savory, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Sweet Potatoes

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An easy and flavorful roasted sweet potato recipe that brings out the vegetable’s natural sweetness with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Perfect as a side dish or addition to bowls, salads, or wraps.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: International
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 2 large sweet potatoes
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
3. 1/2 teaspoon salt
4. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
5. Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
6. Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or cinnamon
7. Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cumin or fresh rosemary or thyme

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

1. Wash and optionally peel sweet potatoes. Cut into cubes or wedges.
2. Place sweet potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
4. Toss to coat evenly and spread into a single layer.
5. Roast for 25–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and fork-tender.
6. Serve warm as a side or add to salads, bowls, or tacos.

Notes

1. Peeling is optional—skins get crispy and add texture.
2. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure caramelization.
3. Sweet or savory seasonings can be used depending on preference.
4. Great for meal prep—store and reheat as needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg